Cutler is still recovering from a groin injury he suffered in Week 7 against the Redskins. The initial prognosis for the injury was a month. It appears Cutler falls right in line with the initial timeline.

Cutler’s absence for yet another week could have a profound effect on the Bears’ franchise.

Backup QB Josh McCown has played well in Cutler’s absence, and his career has been revitalized under Bears’ head coach Marc Trestman.

McCown is 36-of-61 passing for 476 yards and three touchdowns the past two games. He’s clearly a competent replacement for Cutler.

If McCown were to play well for a third time against the Lions, the Bears will have to ask themselves whether or not they’re willing to offer Cutler a massive contract during the offseason. Cutler has a $10.37 million cap hit this year, the final of his deal. The number will grow next season if Cutler is allowed to test the open market and QB-starved teams can bid on his services.

McCown, meanwhile, has a cap hit of $580,000. McCown is currently on a one-year deal, but he could easily become a priority to re-sign.

The Bears may consider the cheaper alternative at QB if the production continues to be similar . McCown — with continued success — could be a placeholder for the franchise, while another QB is drafted in May. The money not spent on Cutler can then be used to upgrade an aging and under-performing defense.

Cutler is currently the Bears’ franchise player, but the franchise may look to go in another direction this offseason.